Siaya Governor James Orengo, long seen as a vocal critic of President William Ruto, is signaling a political shift after securing key development commitments for his county from the Head of State.

On Thursday, Orengo led a delegation of Siaya leaders to State House, Nairobi, for talks with President Ruto on ongoing and future development initiatives.

During the meeting, the President announced a KES 1 billion investment in the county’s blue economy, including the development of Usenge Pier and related port infrastructure, aimed at unlocking economic potential along Lake Victoria.

Ruto also announced that KES1.6 billion had been allocated to connect more than 16,000 households to electricity, a move he said was aimed at stimulating entrepreneurship and improving livelihoods. The President further stated that KES2.5 billion would be allocated for the construction of 16 modern markets.

While opposition leader Raila Odinga was absent from the meeting, Senator Oburu Odinga and former Cabinet Minister
Raphael Tuju were present.

Others who graced the meeting are Alego Usonga MP Sam Atandi, Gem MP Elisha Odhiambo, Energy Cabinet Secretary Opiyo Wandayi, former Rarieda MP Nicholas Gumbo, former police spokesman Charles Owino, Interior PS Raymond Omollo and Medical Services PS Ouma Oluga.

Orengo has not only been calling out Ruto's administration even after the establishment of the Broad-based Government, but also challenged his party, ODM, to stand by its principles even when in the broad-based arrangement.

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